The Adventure Program offers a variety of bold activities and services for those wanting to try new things, explore new places, and build their knowledge of the world. Whether you go on a trip or workshop, climb the top rope or bouldering walls, utilize our equipment for rent, or just need a bike repair, you have the ability to make it your own at Iowa State University.

At the current time paddle sport rentals including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards have been suspended.   

  • A women reaching for a hold on the State Gym climbing wall

    Climbing Walls

    Recreation Services at Iowa State University has climbing walls at State Gym and Lied Rec Center. Top Rope wall is open when staff is there to supervise while Bouldering walls open anytime facilities are open.

    Top-Rope at State Gym is available with all needed equipment available on-site, free of charge. 

  • Biking

    Equipment Rental

    Equipment rental is available at the Adventure Program desk in State Gym. Equipment rental is available for a small fee and is open to both Recreation Services members and non-members.

    Equipment available for rent includes camping supplies, game equipment like sports balls and nets, bicycles, and climbing equipment. 

  • Bicycle maintenance at Recreation Services

    Bike Maintenance

    If you're in need of a brake adjustment, quick tune, or are wanting a safety inspection on your bike, the Adventure Program has you covered. Book an appointment and bring your bike in today so you can get back to your adventure!

Trips and Workshops

Explore the beautiful vistas the United States has to offer with an Adventure Program trip, or hone your outdoor skills with a workshop.

Trips include transportation, food at the destination, technical equipment, logistics and reservations, and a trip leader to plan and manage the trip. Hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping trips are available at various destinations throughout the United States. Trips range in length from a day trip to a week or more.

Fall 2025 Trips and Workshops

EventCostDates 
Rock 1 Workshop

Members: $20

Non-Members: $29

REGISTER HERE

MultipleThis is an introductory course to rock climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear, and basic belaying techniques. Upon completion of this workshop and three follow-up belays, you will obtain a Belay Card for the ISU climbing wall.
    
Rock 2 Workshop

Members: $34

Non-Members $49

REGISTER HERE

MultipleThis is an introductory course to lead climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear and basic lead climbing techniques. Upon completion of this course you will receive a Lead Card that will entitle you to lead climb at the ISU Climbing Wall. The prerequisite for this clinic is to be able to climb at a 5.8 level consistently without falls, have had the Rock 1 belay certification for a minimum of 2 months with ample time down at the wall. Upon signing up you will be assigned 3 pre-work times that must be completed during lead hours or scheduled with one of the staff prior to the day of the class.
    
Day Trip: Lockwood Cafe Ride

Members: Free

Non-Members: $11

REGISTER HERE

Sept. 3Looking for the perfect ride-and-refuel destination? Join us for a scenic bike ride to Lockwood Café in Ames! Cruise through beautiful trails and quiet streets before arriving at this cozy spot known for its refreshing coffee, delicous crepes, and friendly atmosphere. This is a free event but bring a way to pay for Crepes and Coffee at this unique Ames destination! Bike rental is no cost to Rec Members and $11 for all Non-Rec Members.
    
Weekend Trip: Yellow Banks

Members: $90

Non-Members: $120

REGISTER HERE

Sept. 13-14Ready to take your walking skills to the next level? Join us for a local backpacking trip along the yellow-colored bluffs of the Des Moines River. Learn the fundamentals of backpacking and challenge your mind on this weekend trip. You will make incredible friends on the trail, and you will get to camp and cook in the outdoors!
    
Weekend Trip: Intro to Climbing in Horseshoe Canyon

Members: $280

Non-Members: $330

REGISTER HERE

Sept. 18 - 21Horseshoe Canyon Ranch near Japer, AR is a truly beautiful place. The cliffs surrounding the ranch are perfect for all skill levels of rock climbing. The Adventure staff will take care of setting up the climbing routes so the emphasis can be on having fun and climbing. Come with us to check out the climbing at the biggest Dude Ranch east of the Mississippi River.
    
Weekend Trip: Pictured Rocks Backpacking

Members: $230

Non-Members: $280

REGISTER HERE

Sept. 24Sandstone cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, and shorelines beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The lakeshore hugs the Lake Superior shoreline and rewards hikers with exhilarating views and opportunities for personal challenge. Lake Superior is the largest, deepest, coldest, and most pristine of all the Great Lakes. All skill levels welcome but relatively good fitness is recommended. *Thursday early morning departure.
    
Day Trip: Horseback Riding and BBQ at Riverside Camp

Members: $65

Non-Members: $75

REGISTER HERE

Nov. 8Just a short drive to the Riverside Camp in Story City, IA is our destination for this fun adventure. The trip includes an hour long trail ride and a full on BBQ afterwards. The camp has some very friendly horses that are appropriate for anyone to ride. Sorry no “rodeo” moves here.
    
Fall Break Trip: Utah National Park Tour

Members: $620

Non-Members: $700

REGISTER HERE

Nov 22 - 30Escape the ordinary and spend your fall break exploring the stunning red rock landscapes of Utah! This unforgettable trip includes hiking and canyoneering through dramatic canyons, camping under star-filled skies, and discovering the unique beauty of Capitol Reef and Canyonlands National Parks. No experience needed—just a sense of adventure and relatively good fitness!
    
Fall Break Trip: Caddo Lake Canoeing

Members: $390

Non-Members: $420

REGISTER HERE

Nov 22 - 26Step off campus and into the wild with Iowa State’s Adventure Program on a journey through the haunting beauty of Caddo Lake. Paddle beneath ancient cypress trees, explore quiet bayous, and experience a side of nature you won’t find in Iowa. This trip offers a unique chance to build outdoor skills, connect with fellow Cyclones, and discover one of the most unforgettable landscapes in the country. No experience needed—just a sense of adventure and the ability to swim.